This morning, continuing the series ‘Battles and Blessings’, we looked at Ephesians 4:17-32 which talks about the blessings of a changed life. Paul is adamant that our beliefs have an impact on our behaviour and that those in whom Christ’s Spirit dwells will live differently to how the world lives. Without God, we live as if ‘blindfold in a world of lilllusion’ (J. B. Phillips’ translation of Eph 4:17-18, see also 2 Cor 4:4), but when Christ opens our eyes, this has an impact on our behaviour, responses and actions. It’s like taking off a set of old, ragged, dirty clothes and donning a new wardrobe! (Eph 4:22-24)
Paul focuses on how our faith affects our speech (Eph 4:25, 29), reminding us that lying, insincerity, slander, brawling, malice and anythng unwholesome (the word is also used of rotting fish!) all have to go. Our motivation in speaking must be to speak the truth in love (without love, our truthful speech can be cutting and hurtful; without truth, our love can be simply sentimental), always with the intent to build others up according to their needs (not ours.) Those who simply ‘have’ to say it as they see it need to learn self-control and patience (see Ps 141:3, Prov 15:1, Prov 12:18, Prov 15:26). Words can so easily wound and make relationships difficult to maintain, but God should be seen in our speech. The acrostic ‘THINK’ encourages us to evaluate our speech before we open our mouths!
Paul also reminds us of the need to control our anger, being willing to give up grudges and learn to forgive (Eph 4:26-27, 32), keeping short accounts so that the devil does not gain entry into our lives. Our responses need to reflect the fruit of the Spirit growing within us: showing kindness, patience, forgiveness and compassion to others. (Eph 4:32)
Paul also talks about changed actions, covering a wide range of practical scenarios (including stealing, sexual conduct, drunkenness and so on.) We are children of the light (Eph 5:8, 1 Thess 5:5) and our conduct has to reflect our beliefs. Our lives are living letters which are read by others. (2 Cor 3:2)
Ultimately, if God is living in us, He will have an effect on our speech, on the way we think and on the way we act. Compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience are the new clothes we have to put on daily. As we learn to put on these clothes every day, we will find the blessing of a changed life affects not only our own disposition and actions, but has a profound influence and effect on others too. As there is integrity and authenticity in what we think and say and how we live, people will see an alternative way of living which is both compelling and intriguing. If we want to win our community for Christ, we need to live in the blessing of a changed life, knowing ultimately that we no longer live, but Christ lives in us. (Gal 2:20) Then the world will see and know that God is in us and that He is real.